Brushing Or Flossing – What’s More Important?

23 December 2021

Your oral health affects your overall health and well-being. Brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing at least once a day is recommended worldwide. Is it, however, more vital to brush or floss?

Brushing or Flossing?

Brushing and flossing are essential for good dental hygiene. Both should be completed at the same time.

Plaque accumulation is removed via flossing and brushing. Plaque is made up of active colonies of harmful bacteria that feed and then excrete on our teeth. Plaque is only removed from the front and rear surfaces of your teeth when you brush them.

Flossing, on the other hand, removes plaque from between the teeth and behind the gum line. The most destructive microorganisms live in these hard-to-reach places. Gum disease, such as gingivitis or periodontitis, can develop if plaque is not removed from these areas.

The Basics of Dental Flossing

You must first learn how to floss properly in order to reap the full benefits of flossing.

Flossing properly entails wrapping the floss in a ‘c-shape’ and covering as much of the tooth’s surface area as feasible. From each angle, you should cover about half the diameter of the tooth. Move the floss up and down along the exterior surface as well as under the gum tissue. By doing so, the floss will remove plaque from the outside and inner surfaces of your teeth, as well as from beneath the gum tissue.

The Final Word on Flossing

Oral hygiene can not only keep your breath fresh and your teeth and gums healthy, but it can also help prevent periodontal disease. Periodontal disease, in turn, raises the risk of heart disease and diabetes. As a result, maintaining proper oral hygiene may benefit you in ways other than your mouth.

Remember to reach for your floss the next time you reach for your toothbrush. Flossing at least once a day is a simple habit that can enhance not only your smile but also your entire health.

Maintain your oral health or get expert medical advice from Etwall Dental Practice. If you feel as though you may want to learn more about preventative dentistry or any other cosmetic treatment, please get in touch with us via phone on 01283 733391 or fill out our contact form and a member of the team will get back to you to discuss treatment options.